Bridge is an extremely enjoyable game. Courteous behaviour is an exceptionally important part of that enjoyment. This guide serves as a brief reminder of how to behave at the bridge table. We are sure that all players naturally follow this code of conduct, but there are times when concentration and pressure can take their toll and it is for these situations that we issue this as a reminder• Arrive in good time for start of play. • Greet others in a friendly manner prior to start of play on each round.• Be a good ‘host’ or ‘guest’ at the table.• Make bridge enjoyable for yourself, partner and opponents.• Give credit when opponents make a good bid or play.• Take care of your personal grooming.• Ensure that your mobile phone is turned off.• Enjoy the company as well as the game.• Don’t discuss the hand you have just played as it is not fair to others who may hear you.• Be considerate of players at other tables. Don’t be noisy, and be aware that others may be playing after your table has finished play.• If something goes wrong at the table (e.g. a lead or bid out of turn or a revoke) don’t be afraid to call for the director; the director is there to help.

Remember that it is rude to criticise your partner or opponents in public, to be less than polite at the table, to gloat over good results or object to a call for the club director or to dispute or argue about a director’s ruling.

Corsham Bridge Club aims to be a friendly, and not too officious, club. To ensure enjoyment for all, we ask that players read and abide by the guide above, and the EBU’s own guide to Best Behaviour at Bridge, (available here), which all EBU members should adhere to. This additionally draws attention to the EBU’s Bye Laws, particularly Law 74, which is reproduced here for your convenience.

The ultimate authority for matters of conduct and behaviour within the EBU is the EBU Laws and Ethics Committee.

Calling the DirectorWith such an ominous title of “Director”, new bridge players can sometimes feel quite reluctant to call for him/her and maybe even have feelings of guilt if he/she is needed at their table. Such fears and reservations are unfounded, because the Director is there to help as is explained in the attached article, written by one of the local bridge teachers, Trevor Purches. Thanks, Trevor